6 Apr 07   Illegal Diplomacy, Wall Street Journal, COMMENTARY, reader comments
6 Apr 07   Logan Act 1799: comments
5 Apr 07   Pratfall in Damascus, Washington Post, editorial, (comments 1-1000 ¦ 1001-2000 ¦ 2001-2500)
 

       To: MaryLouHarper Say Israel, not Jews. Not all Jews support Israels actions.
By loebner | Apr 5, 2007 1:09:06 AM | Request Removal

       It truly is amazing the manner in which Fred Hiatt will bend over backwards to defend the worst Administration on foreign policy issues since Madison got the town burned down. I suppose it is because he invested so heavily in its stupidities. Add more sugar to the Kool-Aid.
By attaturk2004 | Apr 5, 2007 3:52:34 AM | Request Removal

       Very good article and spot on.Pelosi just made a complete fool of herself,which I am for but she also made our country look foolish.Hopefully the American people will start seeing what children the Dems are with power.
By joes06 | Apr 5, 2007 4:47:01 AM | Request Removal

       Dictator of Syria??? Washinton Pravda can*t stop.
By fearful.rus.bear | Apr 5, 2007 4:53:27 AM | Request Removal

       What a remarkable editorial. The Post does not seem to understand that Ms. Pelosi has demonstrated far more leadership and courage than Fred Hiatt could possibly recognize. The Post is not relevant in its opinions on foreign policy.
By rdklingus | Apr 5, 2007 5:16:06 AM | Request Removal

       Very busy, these Democrats. But I wonder if their playing at being Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense, and Commander-in-Chief shouldn`t come AFTER they actually got a bill or two enacted into law.
By gitarre | Apr 5, 2007 5:29:28 AM | Request Removal

       you seemed to be very much concerned about Israel,It seems you only see black and white, do not understand the shades of Gray. I think Nancy is doing great job and a single world of peace and better understanding then 1 million word of Necon and Rices tough talk . Shame on you in missing the brighter point of Ms. Pelosis visit.
By smart_sha | Apr 5, 2007 5:46:27 AM | Request Removal

       So the Republican way of just keep fighting is the Post*s slogan for the day.
By bayt | Apr 5, 2007 6:03:35 AM | Request Removal

       The Middle East is totally disrupted, largely because of the U.S. interference under the present administration. It has reversed its own course in finally starting diplomatic efforts, with a Middle East that has no confidence in its honesty or its intentions or its abilities. A representative who has the confidence of the U.S. public as demonstrated by the votes and by poll numbers comes with greater credibility - why would WaPo want to demean that effort? I will suggest that the necessity of putting some opinion into print every day overtaxes the present editorial staff to the extent that it lets itself be influenced by the officialdom so loudly voicing political cant.
By jocabel | Apr 5, 2007 6:04:45 AM | Request Removal

       I guess she didnt realize April Fools is on the first.
By tevans58 | Apr 5, 2007 6:37:30 AM | Request Removal

       How about adding to your final sentence unconstitutional and possibly treasonous!
By novoburgo | Apr 5, 2007 6:44:52 AM | Request Removal

       Democrat Media reaps the benefit of supporting Democrat Politicians: DISASTER! And, American taxpayer will soon feel the lust for $s that Democrats always want when theyre in power.
By Max Rugemer | Apr 5, 2007 6:45:37 AM | Request Removal

       Fred Hiatt finding another way to kiss the behind of the Bush administration. Yes Fred. The policies you have endorsed in the middle east have worked out so swimmingly well. Why anybody would think a different approach might work is amazing. It is shameful that she tried. Bush is doing such a bang up job, and Pelosi was about to ruin it all!
By newpairodimes | Apr 5, 2007 6:48:15 AM | Request Removal

       Completely agree with this editorial: Speaker Pelosi seems to suffer from delusions of adequacy. She really should concentrate on doing her new job well and leave the foreign policy to the professionals. It seems that when the Democrats seize power, no matter how marginal, they have an irresistible impulse to embrace Americas enemies. Nancys old enough to know better.
By lindseyf | Apr 5, 2007 6:54:16 AM | Request Removal

       Olmert was submarining Pelosi, most definitely on purpose, and most definitely at the direction of Bushs brain and its AIPAC funding source. It is getting more and more difficult to put anything past these people. I trust none of the several Republican visitors to Syria over the last few days had any such prafalls. What a crock.
By mjhellund | Apr 5, 2007 7:05:48 AM | Request Removal

       IF the WaPO is criticizing her she must be really screwed up. JC
By jimclancymarinerep | Apr 5, 2007 7:29:21 AM | Request Removal

       This common political hack has taken the flattery of her staff to be the Revealed Truth and she has acted accordingly. Her perception of reality ill becomes a powerful Speaker Of The Hous. She seems to have confused the motivations of the Reverend Doctor Jesse Jackson with the corrosive hatreds that drive the High Politics of the Middle East.
By waumpuscat | Apr 5, 2007 7:36:40 AM | Request Removal

       A shadow president is better than no president, which is what we have now.
By frodot | Apr 5, 2007 7:41:49 AM | Request Removal

       Dangerous, liberal moron. Ooops. Sorry. Redundant.
By computer | Apr 5, 2007 7:42:08 AM | Request Removal

       By Ms. Pelosi setting her own foreign policy, it just might be true that San Fransisco is shy one village idiot. Melvin Leppla Jacksonville, NC
By mleppla | Apr 5, 2007 7:47:20 AM | Request Removal

       Goodness gracious, you mean she actually went to Syria and told them Israel wanted peace talks, and that scoundrel Assad said Syria agree to that ? Egads!!! The cheek of that woman!!! Well warm up the tar and feathers, peanut, I think Nancy is on her way home now, you can meet her at the airport and run her out of town on a rail. Dont be shocked if your the only one standing at the airport with a banner that reads Republican Diplomacy Works, Dont interfere, assuming you have a thick enough rug to tell that lie.
By ron.lawhorn | Apr 5, 2007 7:51:58 AM | Request Removal

       like we dont deal with the enemy? Have you fogotten how the CIA hired Ex-Nazis at the end of WWII?...or Japanese Germ Warfare Specialists?...Or Pinochet?...or Samoza, Idi Amin, Nicolae Ceausescu...etc. etc. ...or how about that political humbug, Alan K Simpson, kissing Saddams ass in a feeble and transparent attempt to curry favor with the dictator? The only foolish and counterproductive policy is that the US still has an idiot for a president and a legion of snake oil hawkers to do his bidding! The fault, in the end, is not in the stars, but in ourselves.
By frolveda | Apr 5, 2007 7:53:19 AM | Request Removal

       Pelosis Rodney King posturing merits ridicule. Bush is surely having problems, but hes not bending over for terrorist thugs.
By wbraund | Apr 5, 2007 7:54:54 AM | Request Removal

       Nancy the Bobblehead...Syria regime are nothing more than common street thugs...We the people should ask ourselve why now do they want to resume peace talks? They are doing something some wheres else and using the bobblehead to cover up their real intentions.
By frank.hoare | Apr 5, 2007 7:55:18 AM | Request Removal

       and you really think that Condi Rice has done better? How many years has this administration attempted diplomatic talks? How many times has it failed? Diplomacy is not a major part of this administration - only war.
By gwenpac | Apr 5, 2007 7:57:07 AM | Request Removal

       We have a President who has not yet made ONE good decision regarding American foreign policy, and a WaPo editor thinks Speaker Pelosi is the problem? Gad!
By freespeak | Apr 5, 2007 7:59:08 AM | Request Removal

       so the post chooses to believe the embattled leader of israel rather than an elected united states official. whats wrong with this picture?
By kstack | Apr 5, 2007 7:59:22 AM | Request Removal

       I whole heartily agree with your editorial. Your decorum in your last sentence says it all but I would replace the word, foolish as being too kind and would replace it this word childish.
By tato-pr | Apr 5, 2007 8:01:25 AM | Request Removal

       It is now official: Fred Hiatt and his wingnut sockpuppets are stark raving mad. You*d rather destroy the world than admit your were wrong about anything -- but some of us are not willing to go along quietly.
By nleibowitz | Apr 5, 2007 8:01:27 AM | Request Removal

       Thank God somebody can see the forest and the trees!
By jdg1956 | Apr 5, 2007 8:02:57 AM | Request Removal

       Americans are beginning to see WHY we had GOP majorities in Congress. This current crop of mostly rich white liberals have no clue on how to run a country. They are experts at lying and dividing the country through their intolerant lies and desire for absolute power.Maybe thats why in the lastest Gallup Poll only 28 percent of Americans approve of their performance. Meanwhile the minimum wage bill, which was voted DOWN by the Dems in the last GOP controlled Congress in September 06 STILL sits in Congress........DEMs you promised the American people that this 110th Congress would be a productive one............ Right now its the 110TH DO-NOTHING partisian Congress......... Really sad indeed
By bridgeway | Apr 5, 2007 8:05:38 AM | Request Removal

       What a demonstrative example of stupidity! Perhaps she and Rosie should wed!
By rellis | Apr 5, 2007 8:05:39 AM | Request Removal

       Election year 2006 will be remembered as the Year of the Rope all the Democrats needed to hang themselves before 2008!
By rellis | Apr 5, 2007 8:08:00 AM | Request Removal

       So the Speaker of the House is now the most important official on our Govt? This is a very dangerous thing for a congressperson to be doing. You dont go to another county and undermine the current administrations foreign policy just because you think youre above the fray. Diplomats are there for a reason, the Bush administration knows what theyre doing and even though many dont want to believe it, theyre not a bunch of idiots. The idiots are the ones that dont understand the game that needs to be played when conducting foreign relations, especially with a govt like Syria, or possibly Iran. Going over there and saying things like Pelosi is saying do nothing but worsten our image over there and confuse the process saying things that do not reresent the admins. policy. Shes fine to go over there and meet and discuss, but not to push her policy - as much as shed like to think shes the one in charge, the American people did not put her in that position. I believe she needs to be addressing issues in the U.S. and her constituency in CA. Leave the foreign policy to the professionals.
By bandykem | Apr 5, 2007 8:08:11 AM | Request Removal

       In the spirit of Capitol Hill - investigate, call witnesses, blah blah blah. It is sickening that this elected bunch cant get anything done that really matters to the country.
By donoat | Apr 5, 2007 8:08:53 AM | Request Removal

       Pelosi has made a fool of herself. One hopes the world understands that she does not speak for our government.
By wdbadger | Apr 5, 2007 8:09:42 AM | Request Removal

       I disagree and I am a Republican. In the absence of any real sense of diplomacy by the Bush-Cheyney-Rove administration an oxymoron for our times, a tragic void has been created. It is very naive to think that not talking to our unfriendlies is going to solve anything. Engaging all parties in discussions at least sets a stage for future dialog. When this lame duck,lame brain administration retires to its historical fate, perhaps we can broaden our conversations and seek real solutions to real problems. What a major step forward that would be.
By clgrafton24 | Apr 5, 2007 8:10:48 AM | Request Removal

       Syria and other terrorist Countries do not know Diplomacy. Force is the only true reality they understand. Nancys ego and self indulgence will be costly to our country. She is overstepping here role in the Government. I do not think she could work with a Dem President either. She has classic Queen Bee syndrom.
By SAMILAMASCUS | Apr 5, 2007 8:10:56 AM | Request Removal

       The gist of the WP editorial about Ms Pelosis visit to Damascus is that she showed a willingness to do what a President cowed by a bunch of chickenhawk/neocons did not do and that is act as the statesman and leader of a major if not the major military power. By calling Ms. Pelosi foolish the WP has reached the nadir of what it is becoming....a political national enquirer or a neocon mouthpiece. In either case a disgraceful and insulting editorial
By delarm | Apr 5, 2007 8:14:08 AM | Request Removal

AMEN!
By tmgentry | Apr 5, 2007 8:14:16 AM | Request Removal

       Congresswoman Pelosi is making grave errors here. She is also setting a dangerous precedent. She does not represent Israel. She does not even represent the USA. By the constitution her powers are limited to representing her own district, not the entire country. Her position as speaker is not from an election by the people but by other congressmen. The statements she is making are hollow and meaningless when talking with thugs and murders. She should stay out of state department business. She actually is risking future peace efforts by clouding the process with false statements.
By hoosierken | Apr 5, 2007 8:14:40 AM | Request Removal

        Thank you for your honesty. This is what happens when people vote radicals- of either political persuasion - into office. She is an embarrassment to this country.
By r_delosrios | Apr 5, 2007 8:16:33 AM | Request Removal

things like this circus in Damascus are why people should think long and hard about voting for democrats....our foreign policy has never been so important, and appeasement and cutting out the words war on terrror are just flat scarey to me.........
By kkbear | Apr 5, 2007 8:17:26 AM | Request Removal

The most important thing about the whole artcile that you Pro-Polosi or should I say Anti-Bush posters seem to have missed is that fact that Polosi went and lied on behalf of America to try and look good. She should NOT be doing the work of foriegn affairs. Go ahead and tell me that the majority of America the worlds largest power, the third largest country population wise just incase you all did not know would want Polosi as President. I am thinking you could not state that with any certainty. We are the greatest nation on earth. If you do not want to beleive that or are not willing to fight for that then please keep quiet. Wait I am sorry because we are the greatest nation on earth you do not have to keep quiet. My bad.
By dave | Apr 5, 2007 8:17:41 AM | Request Removal

Wow!!! This coming from the Washington Post?? Maybe I need LASIK!!!!????
By dennisctc | Apr 5, 2007 8:19:35 AM | Request Removal

Shes a blip on the screen. Assad knows shes a lightweight.
By pwarner3 | Apr 5, 2007 8:20:10 AM | Request Removal

A previous poster noted that The Middle East is totally disrupted, largely because of the U.S. interference under the present administration. People with this attitude are poster people for the need of school choice. Did this poster ever read a history book? The Washington Post, a newspaper I do not usually agree with, is right on re Pelosis interference in what are truly State affairs. Pelosi has more hubris than is healthy,i.e., it has the ingredients that can make big trouble for her. I wish President Bush would enact the Logan Act, I wish Pelosi would be openly chastised by her own party, I wish rabid liberals had the capacity to reason, deduct, and act in a way not reprehensible. This woman, Pelosi, is dangerous to the US. Unfortunately she has many comrades in arms who are also dangerous. I dont understand how the panty waist radical liberals can fail to see the danger of attempting to overthrow a constitutionally elected government. There was a time when that was illegal and one could expect no sympathy from loyal Americans. Did Nancy have a right to do what she did? Absolutely NOT! She has put me and all Americans in greater danger and that makes me mad. Way to go Washington Post. Someone on your staff finally opened his/her eyes. God Bless America.
By rafterw | Apr 5, 2007 8:21:34 AM | Request Removal

go nancy. she sure does have all the bushie bully boys in a tizzy...
By lindadlong | Apr 5, 2007 8:21:40 AM | Request Removal

This article absolutely hits the nail on the head. Rather than presenting our terrorist enemies with a solid, uncompromising front Ms. Pelosi has created a breach in the wall of Middle East policy. Her demonstrable ignorance of her role as House Speaker is a serious threat to our national security.
By johnpeterson | Apr 5, 2007 8:22:43 AM | Request Removal

Regretfully the Washington Post editorial gives an honest opinion, the are subject to the same denials that the administration faces when not marching to the drums of the MoveOn.Org crowd.
By yekepa | Apr 5, 2007 8:24:13 AM | Request Removal

Anyone that doesnt agree this was a BIG mistake with respect to US foreign policy is showing their ignorance. I dont care what you think of Bush, et al just brush up on your history and you will easily find that Syria is corrupt and dangerous enemy of the US. Period.
By mmourges | Apr 5, 2007 8:26:46 AM | Request Removal

Regretfully you are subject to the same brow beating the administration receives for honesty. The moveon.org drummers can not face an opinion that does not support their cause. Congresswoman Pelosi just plain out of her element.
By yekepa | Apr 5, 2007 8:27:19 AM | Request Removal

Last time I checked, Israel is a free country. If the Jews are running the war, then those WASPS in Bushs admin are guilty, too. Gotta watch those dangerous WASPS pimpimg for Blair.
By pwarner3 | Apr 5, 2007 8:27:22 AM | Request Removal

A group of three Republican Congressmen met with Assad the day before Pelosi did, and all said it was important to maintain a dialogue with a country the White House says sponsors terrorism. Representative Frank Wolf of Virginia said *I don*t CARE what the administration says about this. You*ve got to do what you think is in the best interest of your country.* Now, will all the Pelosi haters step up to the plate and condemn those 3 Republicans for same? Of course not. You guys haven*t got the guts. Neither does Fred Hiatt.
By auntmo9990 | Apr 5, 2007 8:28:30 AM | Request Removal

Man, you Dems really eat your own! The WaPo prints one critical editorial about Pelosi amid 1000*s of far-left liberal hate-mongering articles, and you people go ballistic! I personally can*t believe they printed this. I forget who posted it, but somebody said they never print negative stories about Israel obviously this is the first article he has read from this paper. All that *news* about Bush/Cheney/Rove/Libby/America/Israel/Republican-bashing thats fit to print...
By jake.smith.1 | Apr 5, 2007 8:28:54 AM | Request Removal

Did Nancy get to fly on the same plane that Secretary Rice uses for foreign travel? No one wants to discuss the envy that also contributed to ms Pelosis decision to make herself head of the Congressional Foreign Service. The fact that all of the most classified information of our government is shared with her, yet she can act so irresponsibly, is just plain nauseating, plus scary.
By marilisabe | Apr 5, 2007 8:31:29 AM | Request Removal

The good news is that while these congressional gasbags are out of town, they are not working on any more dangerous legislation, and GWB can make a bunch of recess appointments.
By gitarre | Apr 5, 2007 8:31:52 AM | Request Removal

Auntomo9990 Did you happen to notice what was said about those other reps? a number of Senate and House members who recently visited Damascus received the impression that despite the declarations of Bashar Assad, there is no change in the position of his country regarding a possible peace process with Israel. In other words they did NOT try and run forgien policy but noticed that they where dealing with a snake. So thank you for being able to read. I understand that when you Hate someone so much that your heros will be anyone at all.
By dave | Apr 5, 2007 8:34:59 AM | Request Removal

Looky there... Now shes broken another glass ceiling! Shes elevating herself to the job of President without even being elected to the job. She is indeed a pompous fool.
By largehound | Apr 5, 2007 8:35:16 AM | Request Removal

Pelosi did what Bush should have done long ago. If Assad is a corrupt thug, Olmert is the Godfather of Thugism. His ratings in Israel are even lower than Bushs in the US. Your editorial shows why Bush has gotten a free pass with the press on his pre-emptive war in Iraq and gross incompetence in handling it. All for Israel!
By loganfield | Apr 5, 2007 8:35:21 AM | Request Removal

Pelosi is a liar and has been for some time. Ask the Congressional budget office how much money was spent from the Captiol Police budget to cover her daughters wedding...oh and the weekly trips to NYC so that she can go shopping. At 30k a trip, its no wonder that the American people are so stupid that they cant understand why the President has failed to get through to Syria...Maybe because they are the enemy here and she is nothing more than a backstabbing, California liberal who has her hands on someone elses money.
By mrnorthernva | Apr 5, 2007 8:35:24 AM | Request Removal

Excellent piece that could not say it more clear. Each branch has its own responsibility and they should stick to it.
By css987 | Apr 5, 2007 8:35:52 AM | Request Removal

The discrimination and lack of respect for women in your article is transparent and should make any newspaper cringe with embarassment. **Mr. Bush said that thanks to the speakers freelancing Mr. Assad was getting mixed messages from the United States**: the term mixed messages is the type of language used to describe a bad blind date. In the realm of professional politics--which Ms. Pelosi and other women are helping to restore in the face of unprofessional blunders in national and international policymaking--we use such terms as **political factionalism** and **alternate routes of diplomacy.** What next from the Washington Post? **Pelosi flirts and giggles with the Middle East**? Please respect women as we respect the world. The Post editorial continues to say **[Pelosi pointed] out that Republican congressmen had visited Syria without drawing presidential censure. Thats true...but those other congressmen didnt try to introduce a new U.S. diplomatic initiative in the Middle East.** I never imagined I would live to see the day when introducing an energetic, peace-promoting dilomatic initiative would be greeted with such dismissiveness and outrage. Or **how-dare-she** haughtiness the Post writes that Pelosi **grandly declares** her hopes for Middle East peace. Would a male diplomat with such noble aims be described as **grandly** declaring, or simply as **declaring**? I ask that the Washington Post refrain from allowing its not-so-subtle disdain for female diplomatic initiative to color its journalistic objectivity and sound judgement. Thank you. Taehee Kim
By theodorax | Apr 5, 2007 8:36:59 AM | Request Removal

If there is anything a neocon hack like Fred Hiatt hates, it is an attempt to make peace. How long will the Washington Post tolerate Fred Hiatt turning their editorial page into toilet paper?
By cassidyt | Apr 5, 2007 8:37:12 AM | Request Removal

When Clinton left office, we had 9/11 in the late stages of planning, daily suicide bombings in Israel, the Intifada, and Al Qaeda firmly in control of Afghanistan. Saddam Hussein was running Iraq and openly financing Palestinian terrorists. After 6 years of Bush we have three Democratically elected governments in Arab countries, Al Qaeda has been pushed underground, and the Arab world is talking peace with Israel. It seems that Pelosi and the Democrats want to send us back to the bad old days. Their hunger for power seems to have no bounds or rationality.
By tonyheller | Apr 5, 2007 8:37:31 AM | Request Removal

Cut out with the Bush apologism before the Post loses all credibility. You say The Israeli prime minister entrusted Ms. Pelosi with no such message. What was communicated to the U.S. House Speaker does not contain any change in the policies of Israel Isnt the most likely explanation of this that, under pressure from the White House, the Israeli prime minister obligingly sought to put a little distance between himself and Pelosi?
By blipper | Apr 5, 2007 8:39:00 AM | Request Removal

I guess we do have guts, as the administration told the Republicans the same thing they told the Pelosi group..I am not a Pelosi hater, you Bush haters are way over the top in name calling...callling the writer names too is really childish...Bashing Israel over this is ridiculous also...if the facts are not in line with move on . orgs spin, the attacks are filled with venom, not discussion or presentation of facts from the dems.....just nastiness...bottom line, Pelosi should be representing her district, we didnt elect her to represent the United States.
By kkbear | Apr 5, 2007 8:39:47 AM | Request Removal

Foolish is as Democrats does, to coin a phrase.
By scottm1207 | Apr 5, 2007 8:42:25 AM | Request Removal

Wow, way to go Conservative Editorial team at the Washington Post. Way to show how out of touch with reality you all are. 1. As none of you have any foreign policy experience what so ever, I find it laughable that you would criticize Speaker Pelosi for trying to make inroads with a country that we need on our side in order to stabablize Iraq, even if they are not our friends. No one in this administration is doing anything diplomatically to get our troops out of Iraq and find a way to stabalize the country. Republicans are just upset because Pelosis actions in Syria made Bush look completely inept and more like a lame duck. The funny thing is that a majority of the American people will support Speaker Pelosi, as they have no faith in the president. 2. For decades pork has been added into defense bills and we have all learned to accept that as a way of life. Its not nice, and if someone wants to change it they can, but that is just how the system works. So dont play dumb and act like this has never happened before. Also, Congress can make stipulations when it comes to the purse strings and while Bush is CC he is not sole emperor. He can be checked by the legislature and its about time he was. If Bush vetos this bill it will be a huge mistake on his part and may cost the Republicans in 08, if this occupation in Iraq is still going on. I hoped you learned something from this post editorial staff. Lord knows college didnt teach you anything.
By pgettrust | Apr 5, 2007 8:45:02 AM | Request Removal

Undermining allies and supporting our enemies is par for the course with the blame America first crowd made up of overindulged babies full of white guilt. Syria assasinates with impunity and its Bushs fault though it has been going on for years.
By scottm1207 | Apr 5, 2007 8:45:30 AM | Request Removal

Madame Pelosi indeed did do damage to western civilization in giving a podium and microphone to Thug Assad and his henchmen murderers. Evidently, Pelosi who is without learned in gutter politics here on our shores, takes her brand of gutter-sniping across the Atlantic to foreign lands, to enemies of our Republic. Pelosi gives aid and abets the enemies of our nation. Her instinctual reflex to bash Bush at every turn and her kissing up to Bashar whom she should be bashing with the rest of the civilized world. Shame on Pelosi. She defiled Holy Week for Christians worldwide in this nonsense of misrepresenting the Israeli position. Shame on her.
By bjkord | Apr 5, 2007 8:45:51 AM | Request Removal

Not foolish--just arrogant and stupid
By director | Apr 5, 2007 8:46:13 AM | Request Removal

Jakesmith1 says The WaPo prints one critical editorial about Pelosi amid 1000*s of far-left liberal hate-mongering articles, and you people go ballistic! Sorry, Jake -- either youre new here or you dont read well. The Washington Post editorial page has been shilling for Bush for years. Its as delusionally split from its news page as is the Wall Street Journal editorial page from its news page. Even the Post news reporters snicker at the craveness of their editorial page.
By blipper | Apr 5, 2007 8:47:07 AM | Request Removal

I can understand why Hollywierd wants us out of Iraq so badly. They need to produce Killing Fields 2, in which America abandons its allies again and genocide of millions ensues, with thousands of lucky refugees fleeing to the safety of The Great Satan.
By scottm1207 | Apr 5, 2007 8:47:18 AM | Request Removal

So, what would the editor consider productive? Manufacturing evidence that Syria has nuclear weapons, then using the Press to circulate false stories of how Syria is now the number one threat to US security? It would surely not be foolish to then launch an invasion and open-ended occupation of Syria and give no bid contracts to defense companies that dont even have to perform any provable service in order to get paid? Now that is PRODUCTIVE, right??? So, tell me editor, why is it you can easily see propaganda in Mr. Assads words but cant seem to catch it in your own newspaper? The President is only competent at expanding his own powers. His administration is more cri
By mut72 | Apr 5, 2007 8:47:50 AM | Request Removal

Ms. Pelosi is an incompetent representative of this country trying to promote her and the left wing agenda. You Democrats just keep this up, and youll certainly be gone the next election cycle.
By crowleyp | Apr 5, 2007 8:47:57 AM | Request Removal

I must have missed something in the 2006 elections. I thought we all ready had a President and Sec. of State. Ms Pelosi thinks that being # 3 in line makes her responsible for domestic and international policy if it suites the Democrats agenda. I think she should be arrested when she deplanes put in chains shown how to do the shuffle so she won/t stumble carrying all that extra weight to go along with her swollen head. Treason would be a start. At the tender age of 73 I have watched this once great nation a paragon of law and order fall prey to PC, inept politicianspimps and prostitutes fritter away our rights and bring scorn to this country by every 3rd world tin horn dictator. Wake up America something has to change, hopefully 2008 may bring sanity back.
By superheadhunter1974 | Apr 5, 2007 8:48:29 AM | Request Removal

This editorial is dead on target. Dear Ms. Pelosi: For the good of our nation and for the good of one of our staunchest allies, Israel: will you please stop playing with foreign policy that you have no standing, authority or experience with? You are hurting us. The middle east is not a political whistle-stop where you can barf out stupidities, secure in the knowledge that mainstream media will protect you. Please help our country, our allies, world diplomacy and what is left of your reputation: shut the hell up. Thank you.
By kbmr | Apr 5, 2007 8:48:37 AM | Request Removal

The Author of this article needs to step up and attach his or her name to it. Assessing negative commentary to any diplomatic effort and then not being held accountable is a slimy way to make a statement. If we had a Secretary of State that did anything more than rack up frequent flyer miles and shop for the latest footwear they might have a valid point. The fact remains that there are no Diplomatic successes that can be attributed to this Administration and its foreign policy figurehead--Condeleeza Rice. As if singling out the efforts of Nancy Pelosi isnt bad enough, the lack of coverage of her Republican counterparts makes it seem as if she went there all by her lonesome. You want to put a slant on this story, then how about a commentary on the overall lack of Governance by this Administration concerning its Diplomatic efforts worldwide because thats the story that needs to be emphasized and in need of truly negative press.
By scottyurb | Apr 5, 2007 8:49:59 AM | Request Removal

Undermining current Bush policy could hardly be damaging. Disrupting, perhaps . . . but it needs disrupting!
By jmm430069 | Apr 5, 2007 8:50:04 AM | Request Removal

Pelosi or no Pelosi, the middle-east has got to be democratised . Iraq is now established in democracy. Next , Iran and then Syria require to be assissted to start on the road . It is good for the world that USA finally moved to shoulder such a great responsibility. Mr. Bush just started it. Great credit to him. Republican or Democratic , the administrations party affiliations do not matter. There is work to be done. Hope it will be done.
By m_krishnamachary | Apr 5, 2007 8:50:25 AM | Request Removal

Pelosi is starting to make Hillary look good as Hillary moves to the center and Pelosi becomes the darling of MoveOn.Org. Nancy should enjoy her 15 minutes of fame because if Hillary does become President, I dont think Nancy will be doing much traveling or getting much facetime with the press.
By fungrlsmom | Apr 5, 2007 8:53:42 AM | Request Removal

Nancy Pelosi is filling a vacuum created by the Bush administration.
By BCCII | Apr 5, 2007 8:54:04 AM | Request Removal

Lorry Bomb Kills Children in School/By James Hider/The Times of London/Tuesday 03 April 2007/ Baghdad -The latest massacre of Iraqi children came as 21 Shia market workers were ambushed, bound and shot dead north of the capital. The victims came from the Baghdad market visited the previous day by John McCain, the US presidential candidate, who said that an American security plan in the capital was starting to show signs of progress........ok ok Pelosi stays out of Syria and McCain stays out of the steadily progressing Iraq.
By recman | Apr 5, 2007 8:54:27 AM | Request Removal

MaryLouHarper if that is your name, your tone sounds much like a Middle Eastern Blog Squatter. Are you sure that you are not really hiding something? Jew duplicity is the real problem and has been forever, sounds a little anti-Semitic to me... Or maybe I am wrong, you are anti-Semitic of the American secular variety...
By dmorris | Apr 5, 2007 8:54:32 AM | Request Removal

Oops, I caught the title and linked here, only to read the most slanted judgmental nonsense. Ok, I scrolled up and found that this is not a news item......nope, it is an editorial. I think the editor who wrote it has a real bias showing, and that bias is that we Americans should never think for ourselves, but must instead rely on pronouncements from George W. Bush about what is true or untrue. If GWB says someone is bad [Assad], then no one is to ever think [or prove] otherwise. Hmmm, that is sort of a dead-end street, as stated by the Iraq Study Group, too.
By rolf10 | Apr 5, 2007 8:55:08 AM | Request Removal

Nancy Pelosi is filling a vacuum created by the Bush administration.
By BCCII | Apr 5, 2007 8:55:11 AM | Request Removal

Nancy Pelosi is filling a vacuum created by the Bush administration.
By BCCII | Apr 5, 2007 8:56:31 AM | Request Removal

Why is no one in either the Senate of the House speaking outagainst this women and her destructive ways? She is operationg totally outside her constitutional authority. Can nothing be done to stop her? She is strenthening the resolve of the enemy at every turn. America wake up!!!
By patgosselin | Apr 5, 2007 8:56:37 AM | Request Removal

Oops, I caught the title and linked here, only to read the most slanted judgmental nonsense. Ok, I scrolled up and found that this is not a news item......nope, it is an editorial. I think the editor who wrote it has a real bias showing, and that bias is that we Americans should never think for ourselves, but must instead rely on pronouncements from George W. Bush about what is true or untrue. If GWB says someone is bad [Assad], then no one is to ever think [or prove] otherwise. Hmmm, that is sort of a dead-end street, as stated by the Iraq Study Group, too.
By rolf10 | Apr 5, 2007 8:57:36 AM | Request Removal

Dave, dear, did you happen to notice that those Republican Congressman clearly said they don*t CARE what the administration says? I*m sorry you*re not able to read. And by the way, I am a Republican, and my hero was Ronald Reagan, who had the wisdom and the maturity to know that while strength was important, negotiations with the *Evil Empire* were very necessary. Your hero, on the other hand, behaves like an adolescent, and couldn*t live up to Reagan*s legacy if he tried. When YOU hate someone so much, your own heroes will be anyone at all, dear. With all due respect to your own blind hatred.
By auntmo9990 | Apr 5, 2007 8:58:23 AM | Request Removal

Great article.
By marinecorpsbruin | Apr 5, 2007 8:59:33 AM | Request Removal

Once again Fred Hiatt proves he is in the pocket of the Bush administration and the neocons. Your newspaper is a dinosaur. I will watch with pleasure as its subscription dwindles and it withers and dies. The WaPo will end up a right wing blog in a couple of years.
By nthdegree | Apr 5, 2007 8:59:54 AM | Request Removal

How did this once great paper become an arm of the white house propaganda machine? Three republicans congressmen apparently with White House help meet with the Syrian president one day before Speaker Pelosi and there is not one word from the Washington Post. The day after Speaker Pelosis trip hiatt runs an editorial that is nothing but bush administration talking points. Sad just damn sad.
By danaminor | Apr 5, 2007 9:01:22 AM | Request Removal

Nancy Pelosis behavior is outrageous. Not only is she undermining the authority of the executive branch to conduct foreign policy, but she is abusing the office of House Speaker. If she wants to run US foreign policy, run for president. Otherwise she should stick to what she was elected to do. Run the House of Representatives.
By silo333 | Apr 5, 2007 9:02:09 AM | Request Removal

This shows how really stupid she is. She belongs in a kitchen cooking biscuits, if she knew how. Not running around the globe trying to play like she is someone important.
By don.eaddy | Apr 5, 2007 9:02:21 AM | Request Removal

Hiatt wrong on each and every count. As usual no apology or correction from Hiatt. Just another Bush apologia in the next day or two riddled with the same fallacies.
By attaturk2004 | Apr 5, 2007 9:02:39 AM | Request Removal

and not a single major media moderator explained the gaffe in the clear, accurate, succinct and unbiased fashion as you. Good job WP.
By toastersnavy | Apr 5, 2007 9:03:03 AM | Request Removal

I would expect no less than an in your face approach to politics that Ms. Pelosi offers. Typical failing defeatist democrat stategy.
By armcomdes | Apr 5, 2007 9:03:05 AM | Request Removal

Wow! Kudos...
By annah67 | Apr 5, 2007 9:04:03 AM | Request Removal

The authors correct in that Pelosi appears foolish. In fact she is an utter fool and an embarrassment to the country strutting about with a do rag on her head presuming to speak for the USA or Israel. She should endeavor to get a 5 day work week out of the House one of many unfulfilled promisesbefore branching off into heroic foreign policy activism. I see that jimmy carter is in favor of her initiatives-a sure sign that the enterprise is total idiocy!
By jsanderssr | Apr 5, 2007 9:04:19 AM | Request Removal

Given the WaPos track record with the war and and its cheerleading support of six years of Bush administration failures in foreign policy, there is prima facie evidence that you are wrong until proven otherwise. Ms. Pelosi tried talking to our enemies in Syria. Tony Blairs government tried talking to their enemies in Iran, and their diplomacy worked. Could it be possible that you are dead wrong -- AGAIN?
By r.frye | Apr 5, 2007 9:04:35 AM | Request Removal

I would expect no less than an in your face approach to politics that Ms. Pelosi offers. Typical failing defeatist democrat stategy.
By armcomdes | Apr 5, 2007 9:04:38 AM | Request Removal

Pelosi visit is similar to Sec Chamberlains vist to Hitler in WWII. Only this time the enemy has an A bomb. The bombing of London will only last 6 minutes.
By mentalgame | Apr 5, 2007 9:04:54 AM | Request Removal

Once again the Frisco Madam has proven that the only vacuum involved in todays government is in the heads of the Democrats leadership.
By bbeck3 | Apr 5, 2007 9:05:01 AM | Request Removal

This show how really stupid she is. She belongs in a kitchen cooking biscuits, if she knew how.
By don.eaddy | Apr 5, 2007 9:05:16 AM | Request Removal

Pelosi is afflicted with a severe case of acute self importance. She sees herself in a light noone else does. Her egotistical deeds and actions seak for themselves. Ms. Pelosi you should be seeing your psychologist rather than Assad.
By eagle64 | Apr 5, 2007 9:05:54 AM | Request Removal

From our *established democracy* in Iraq, Syria has taken in one million refugees, Iran also. Markets were open, no flack jackets, cobra helicopters present. She went to see for herself, OK with me. For the women in the region, it must give them hope, to see what women in America can do in regards to a career. If nothing else, that makes our nation stand out. Diplomacy, democracy at the end of a rifle, is not working. Perhaps the visit, will begin a dialog, between the nations of the region, for an end to this madness in two years. Another helicopter was shot down today, more death, same headlines as yesterday, as will be tomorrow. Im ready to try something different.
By donbr51 | Apr 5, 2007 9:05:57 AM | Request Removal

Thank god Ms Pelosi is other there trying to do what the American people elected her and Congress to do while the sitting Republican president is playing cowboy on his ten speed bicycle in Crawford. Doesnt it mean anything to you that Bush, as foreign policy expert or commander in chief, has brought the world to the edge of catastrophe--see yesterdays Public Agenda report on the nearness of the tipping point in American foreign policy.
By pjbless | Apr 5, 2007 9:06:22 AM | Request Removal

I never thought I would see the day where common sense was reflected on the pages of the Washington Post. Good work.
By bushrocks | Apr 5, 2007 9:06:33 AM | Request Removal

WOW! I didnt realize so many neo-nazis read the Washington Post. This man assassinates Lebanons PM and youre talking about Jew duplicity. No wonder Dems want to elect a man named Obama Hussein.
By martinraynelson | Apr 5, 2007 9:06:51 AM | Request Removal

Ms. Pelosi shows that she is a disgrace to to her position and the US. This typical of the Democratics as they can only criticize and dont have the ability to govern, but they surley know who to raise taxes. They sure can throw up the white flag and go home with their tail between their legs. What does this do for our military men and women?? The whole crew are a disgrace to our country. Al
By acislo | Apr 5, 2007 9:06:56 AM | Request Removal

I agree with everything this article says. I believe Pelosi is not only foolish she is not too bright. Voters better wake up to what the dems are doing by embracing terrorist countries. They might have been brain washed into hating Bush, but he has kept the US safe from another attack. Economy is good, market is great and unemployment is also good. I hope the media will also wake up and realize that they are destorying the offfice of the Presidency that will have consequences long after Bush is out.
By suelnewman | Apr 5, 2007 9:07:09 AM | Request Removal

No kidding, is the Washington Post aware that its op/ed page is this popular with anti-Semites? Is that the target demographic?
By bushrocks | Apr 5, 2007 9:08:14 AM | Request Removal

A do-rag??? I don*t suppose our little AM radio wingnuts have seen the pictures of Laura Bush wearing same when SHE visited Muslim countries..... Gawd, these wingnuts are ignorant.
By auntmo9990 | Apr 5, 2007 9:08:46 AM | Request Removal

OK...first of all, this editorial reads like a press release from the WH. It has all of the standard talking points, including the BS about Pelosi trying to manage the war The House bill gives the president the funds he asked for - and more - while setting a date after which Congress likely will no longer fund the war - which they have every right to do per the Constitution. How does this infringe upon the presidents roles as CinC? Answer - it does not. Second of all, I read stories both in the JPost and Haaretz about the he said, she said between Pelosi and Olmert. One thing was clearly missing - a named source. In both stories it was the prime ministers office or officials said or sources say. Who are these mystery people? Until somebody with a name speaks up or Olmert himself says that Nancy delivered the wrong or false message, Im going to take these unnamed source quotes with a grain of salt.
By jamie_nieradka | Apr 5, 2007 9:08:51 AM | Request Removal

Its amazing how ignorant liberals are of the motivations and actions of Assads regime. Libs believe talk is the answer to all the worlds problems. Nations like Syria and Iran view talk as a sign of weakness.
By systrac3 | Apr 5, 2007 9:08:55 AM | Request Removal

The Damascus Dive has shown that she can go Nevill Chamberland one better. I hope she can keep it up and all terrorists just love her. Tim Lampman
By tlips2 | Apr 5, 2007 9:09:11 AM | Request Removal

Shes third in line for the presidency. SCARY!!!!
By pescaderotarzan | Apr 5, 2007 9:09:50 AM | Request Removal

Amen!
By tom | Apr 5, 2007 9:11:00 AM | Request Removal

I see the once-proud Washington Post has officially turned itself into a wingnut propaganda outlet a la Faux News, complete with the brain-damaged wingnut readers who have exposed their stupidity for all to see on this comment thread. Sad.
By labonne.s | Apr 5, 2007 9:11:18 AM | Request Removal

I am appalled as some of what I have read here by way of responses to the article. MaryLouHarper said In all likelihood, the jews lied to Pelosi. Jew duplicity is the real problem and has been forever, not Speaker Pelosi. Her real mistake was believing the jews, and in five pages of posted comments, I saw ONE rebuke from a liberal loebner, page 1. You all have a major anti-Semite among you, and only ONE of you can muster the courage to rebuke her? If you cannot summon an ounce of outrage about this Nazi among you, what does that say about the morality of the rest of your arguments? Some of you charge the author with sexism because the target of his comments is a woman - as if she wasnt a grownup who put herself into the position in which she finds herself. You would not make the same charge if she were MR. Pelosi - even though sexism can cut both ways. You call names you stamp your little feet and you hold your breath until you turn blue. What does any of this have to do with reality? What does any of this have to do with a knowledge of our Constitution and the separation of powers? But what is really remarkable is that, after such displays of immaturity and lacking a basic understanding of American civics, you actually want people to take you seriously. Good luck with that.
By chris | Apr 5, 2007 9:11:35 AM | Request Removal

I dont think we need any more proof of the poor judgement of the current Democrat party leadership, and we now have an excellent reason to reverse the last election at the next one.
By jacklifton | Apr 5, 2007 9:11:49 AM | Request Removal

Nancy Pelosi did nothing more than prove herself a fool to the world.
By kpew | Apr 5, 2007 9:11:56 AM | Request Removal

Nancy P, drunk with power, pads the surrender bill with 20 billion in pork to eek out a sorry victory with greedy fence-sitting dems, then moves on to Damascus to give aid and comfort to the country that is responsible for 80 of the IEDs that kill American soldiers. Just doing what the voters asked us to do in the last election...Funny I dont remember this stuff on my ballot.
By jack | Apr 5, 2007 9:12:02 AM | Request Removal

AMEN...
By tomtravers | Apr 5, 2007 9:12:04 AM | Request Removal

Congrats Nancy, You now rank up there with Jane Fonda, a Seditious turncoat. Will you do as Jane did and have a blood drive for the terrorists that kill American soldiers? Tim Lampman
By tlips2 | Apr 5, 2007 9:12:10 AM | Request Removal

She is a traitor, plain and simple. And stupid to boot.
By dbmwjm61 | Apr 5, 2007 9:13:10 AM | Request Removal

Ms. Pelosi is a disgrace to American. She goes over there against the wishes of the President and screws things up. All she and her Democratic party know how to doe is critize and throw up the white flag, then run with their tail between their legs. Good example for our service men and women. A complete disgrace. However, they sure know how to raise taxes. Step Down. Al
By acislo | Apr 5, 2007 9:13:11 AM | Request Removal

This succinct and accurate editorial should have been the main talking point for all the major media outlets last night. Unfortunately it appears that being a liberal is supposed to excuse treasonous and illegal behavior. Her immature and unprofessional decision to create her own executive branch of the government albeit three doors down from the White House is simply outrageous. I dont expect this from either party.
By toastersnavy | Apr 5, 2007 9:13:42 AM | Request Removal

Odd, that systrac, in his ignorant rant about *libs,* forgets that RONALD REAGAN thought negotiation with the *Evil Empire* was the answer to those problems, too. In their desperate attempts to defend our current presidential failure, they*re willing to abandon the principles of Ronald Reagan, too. But then again, their definition of *history* is whatever Rush Limbaugh told them yesterday. Sheesh
By auntmo9990 | Apr 5, 2007 9:13:53 AM | Request Removal

Thank you Post for displaying common sense with this editorial. Foreign policy is the realm of the Executive branch, just as originating spending bills is the realm of the House. You gotta keep em separated!
By cytomitch | Apr 5, 2007 9:14:21 AM | Request Removal

Foolish? No more so than the unelected and totally ignorant Mlle Rice parading around pretending to be the Sec. of State.
By biggerblat | Apr 5, 2007 9:14:26 AM | Request Removal

Sir: Your Pelosi editorial is well reasoned. Ms. Pelosi seems very confused about her role and responsabilites as Speaker. She seems to feel she has been annointed Co-President and that she has some sort of a mandate to trump the elected President. Ms. Pelosi needs to read the Constitution and learn what every school child in America is supposed to know about the separation of powers. Ms. Pelosis wildly inflated ego, and her flawed notion of our Constitution, are dangerous for America and the World. Kent Adams Houston, Texas
By kentadams | Apr 5, 2007 9:14:31 AM | Request Removal

I am a voter. Do you know what I see? Nancy Pelosi doing her job. The job I asked Dems to do when I went to the polls in Nov 2006. More power to her ...
By CsueW | Apr 5, 2007 9:14:36 AM | Request Removal

Nancy Pelosis attempt to restart peace negotiations may be ineffective however, George W. Bushs ineptitude has been such a complete failure that nothing could be worse. Perhaps she will jump start the discussion, if nothing else.
By matthewsp | Apr 5, 2007 9:14:55 AM | Request Removal

This editorial is right on target. Pelosi had no business going abroad on what has turned out to be nothing more than a trip to glorify herself. She is not the Secretary of State, nor the Vice President, nor anyone of importance when it comes to diplomacy. She may be third in line to be President, but she was not elected to do what she tried to do, nor was she elected to be a de facto Commander in Chief. She has embarrassed the U.S. and her party, and if Steny Hoyer were smart, he would be working behind the scenes to have her removed as Speaker of the House.
By bowenm | Apr 5, 2007 9:15:02 AM | Request Removal

obviously this was written by a blind bushie who does not seem to realise that bush is not president to assert HIS ideas but to represent the people of the usa... and WE the people do not back his personal agenda...
By infamousangel55 | Apr 5, 2007 9:15:42 AM | Request Removal

Im curious, does Pelosi mind the blood of Rafik Harriri sticking to her hand after shaking that of Assads?
By mozzmozz | Apr 5, 2007 9:15:49 AM | Request Removal

Pelosi is a tratior, plain and simple. And stupid. Hello, any enterprising politicians out there? She and several others are engaging in increasingly flagrant treason. When is someone going to prosecute them? After our country has fallen to our enemies is too late.
By dbmwjm61 | Apr 5, 2007 9:16:47 AM | Request Removal

I have to admit, I get a real good laugh out of those people referring to the WaPo as the liberal media. If your politics lie to the right of the Posts editorial staff, you must think Hitler was a real wuss.
By nate.lambeth | Apr 5, 2007 9:16:48 AM | Request Removal

Nancy made a fools errand trip. Not only does she not have the authority or the skills to negotiate in this complex arena, she violated the LOGAN ACT and should be charged with treason. She accomplished nothing in her Utopian world as Assad is full of double-speak and not do what she thinks will be done. A PR opportunity at best, she will soon be disappointed that she thought she could wade into the complicated mess and Grandmother her way out of it. Treason is a serious crime. She has no authority under the Constitution of the United States to negotiate on behalf of our country. Fact finding missions are one thing as both sides do it. But this was a clear breach of the separation of powers our founding Fathers wrote of on Onion skin paper. The left just does not get it. For 444 days American embassy and marines were held prisoner until Reagan came to power and fixed the problem. The only thing understood by these barbarians in the middle east is power and the chance to use it. Two FULL American battle groups with operating orders to attack if attacked are ready for them. We have the last blue-water navy to project power left on earth. Want to see our way of life die? Cut off funding for our military and technological advantages. Semper Fidelis
By lauban888 | Apr 5, 2007 9:16:53 AM | Request Removal

Fred Hiatt is a moron
By bcelaya | Apr 5, 2007 9:16:57 AM | Request Removal

Foolish is putting it rather mildly. Excellent piece.
By dcmike100 | Apr 5, 2007 9:18:27 AM | Request Removal

Not only has Speaker Pelosi tried to implement her own foreign policy, shes given the President another excuse for an failures in the foreign policy arena. Its one thing to be critical of the Presidents policies, its another to actively work to subvert those policies. It allows the President, at a minimum, to credibly claim that his policies would have worked had it not been for the unwarranted interference from Pelosi and all the other junior Secretaries of State in Congress.
By davidwalser | Apr 5, 2007 9:18:52 AM | Request Removal

Not only counterproductive and foolish, but also treason. The woman should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
By mulkie | Apr 5, 2007 9:19:03 AM | Request Removal

Good editorial and straight to the poin. She is wacky and dangerous...
By dboone6 | Apr 5, 2007 9:19:09 AM | Request Removal

The president picked a war on Iraq because he thought he could win easily. Mission accomplished turned out to be mission begun. Diplomacy trumps bullets. Picking and chosing which countries to call friends and which to call enemies does nothing for diplomacy, but speaks loads about the reasoning of our leadership.
By hbryan | Apr 5, 2007 9:19:31 AM | Request Removal

This editorial is a good example of why I canceled my subscription to this paper in July 2004. I highly recommend other subscribers to do the same. This is just stenography of Republican talking points contradicting other articles in this same paper. You have well-earned the name of Pravda on the Potomac. Bonnie M. Matheson North Bethesda, MD
By mzrk9 | Apr 5, 2007 9:19:33 AM | Request Removal

Mozzmozz: Did Olmert of Israel mind all the blood of the Lebanese on his hands after he destroyed that country with George Bush*s blessing? If you think the Lebanese will EVER trust Bush again, you*re very naive. Even the Saudis and the Jordanians have cancelled diplomatic visits to Washington rejecting Bush*s deceit. Think that makes you safer?
By auntmo9990 | Apr 5, 2007 9:20:50 AM | Request Removal

Looney Toon!!!!
By shrkba8 | Apr 5, 2007 9:20:52 AM | Request Removal

San Francisco people march to the beat of a different drum. They are the only people in California who voted to retain Gray Davis and they gave us HIV and Pelosi.
By pescaderotarzan | Apr 5, 2007 9:20:57 AM | Request Removal

Perhaps Assad was entertained by Nancy with her Haight-Ashbury, flower encrusted head band sporting a peace symbol. Was tantric massage discussed and the benefits of being a vegan? Did she discuss with Assad that BDSM and Gay rights are important in any major city not? Sorry she will not last long. Nor will Hillary get elected.
By lauban888 | Apr 5, 2007 9:21:21 AM | Request Removal

This is an example of why Democrats can not be trusted with National Defence. If they had the White House and the Congress, we would be hunkered down waiting for next attack. And after each attack, they would saywe are really mad this time we are going to the UN. Perhaps not all Democrats, about 90.
By jandskelley | Apr 5, 2007 9:21:41 AM | Request Removal

But Ms. Pelosis attempt to establish a shadow presidency is not only counterproductive, it is foolish. Of this fact we are certain! I can only hope she is not also so stupid that she cannot understand and learn from these mistakes. Please!
By Littman | Apr 5, 2007 9:22:31 AM | Request Removal

Nancy Pelosi is a sad joke! Her Democratic colleagues ought to be ashamed, since she not only made a fool out of herself in Damascus, but she also made fools out of them for installing her as Speaker in the first place.
By jprife | Apr 5, 2007 9:22:38 AM | Request Removal

Is this too ridiculus to sign?......your readers have a right to know who wrote this!!!!
By tjlegg | Apr 5, 2007 9:23:05 AM | Request Removal

Who will rid us of these troublesome pests, these illiberal, illiterate Democrats?
By chucklivingston | Apr 5, 2007 9:23:20 AM | Request Removal

to auntmo9990: Olmert was leading a war, with uniformed soldiers attacking terrorists and their infrasttructure. Assad is a murderer who cowardly consipired to assasinate not one but many Lebanese politicians. If you do not understand this difference then you are either stubborn, biased or delusional. Pick one or all,
By mozzmozz | Apr 5, 2007 9:23:40 AM | Request Removal

Finally, some sensibility coming from a left wing rag. What Pelosi is doing is treasonous and dangerous. She has blood stains on her scarf.
By vxsmith | Apr 5, 2007 9:23:41 AM | Request Removal

Thank you for that assesment. Mary Ann
By marh_1 | Apr 5, 2007 9:23:53 AM | Request Removal

It wont take another country to destroy the U.S. Unfortunately it seems to be crumbling from the inside. I miss the days, whether delusional thinking of not, when the country was united and all were proud to be an American. Im afraid for us. Thank you Ms. Pelosi.....NOT!
By diana_b | Apr 5, 2007 9:23:59 AM | Request Removal

Isnt it very obvious? To be a liberal you have to suspend your intelligence and believe the world is a happy happy joy joy place where everyone would get along if it werent for Christians, Jews, and America. The process of self-delusion necessary to become a liberal is so intensive that it renders the adherent incapable of basic logic. For instance, when a guy whos demonstrably responsible for the assassination of a neighboring democratic head of state smiles and tells you how ready they are to engage in diplomatic relations, he’s probably !
By matthew.vile | Apr 5, 2007 9:24:32 AM | Request Removal

If you and someone else are in a boat thats sinking and there is a plug in the boat that can stop the leak do you wait for the other person to stop the leak or do you plug it yourself. This is exactly whats happening to the US diplomacy the President has not been sucessful in that part of the world its time to give someone else a chance to stop the leak.
By elain | Apr 5, 2007 9:24:38 AM | Request Removal

WOW! The Post has confirmed what many of us have thoguht while watching and observing pelosi on various talk shows. She aint real bright! She is in way over her head and the sad thing is that she doesnt even know it!
By selepak | Apr 5, 2007 9:24:44 AM | Request Removal

Im posting the statement of clarification from the Olmerts office below. I see nothing in this statement that contradicts what Pelosi discussed with Assad and the Syrians, nor does it call her a liar. Its a clarification that yes, we are ready to talk peace, if you are ready to be peaceful. From the reports I read re: Pelosis visit, it seems she brought up the issues of Syrian support for Hamas and Hizballah - as in, cut it out. So its not like it wasnt on the table. The comments from unnamed sources in the JPost and Haaretz that I referred to in my previous post were the ones that implied, essentially, that Pelosi was a liar and a fool. The official statement from the PMs office says none of that. In fact, I dont think its critical of Pelosi at all...its a clarification. Heres the statement...you decide: Communicated by the Prime Ministers Bureau Following quotes attributed to U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, during her visit to Damascus, the Prime Minister’s Bureau wishes to clarify the following: During Mrs. Pelosi’s meeting with Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, before her visit to Syria, the Prime Minister said that a number of Senate and House members who recently visited Damascus received the impression that despite the declarations of Bashar Assad, there is no change in the position of his country regarding a possible peace process with Israel. The Prime Minister emphasized that although Israel is interested in peace with Syria, that country continues to be part of the axis of evil and a force that encourages terror in the entire Middle East. In order to conduct serious and genuine peace negotiations, Syria must cease its support of terror, cease its sponsoring of the Hamas and Islamic Jihad organizations, refrain from providing weapons to Hizbåullah and bringing about the destabilizing of Lebanon, cease its support of terror in Iraq, and relinquish the strategic ties it is building with the extremist regime in Iran. The Prime Minister clarified that by these measures it would be determined whether Syria is sincere about attaining a genuine peace with Israel. What was communicated to the U.S. House Speaker does not contain any change in the policies of Israel, as was communicated to other foreign leaders.
By shamey73 | Apr 5, 2007 9:25:03 AM | Request Removal

All I can say is wow and thank you guys for being on top of this.. Im amazed. I suspected Pelosi was an amature wandering around in the big leagues but I didnt realize how much until it was put in prospective. In the South wed say..Bless her Heart which here can mean a lot of things, in this instance, itd be interpreted as.. Bless that Dolts Heart.
By fratboii | Apr 5, 2007 9:25:10 AM | Request Removal

Boo hoo - poor mr. president - at least pelosi is making an attempt to open up some communication while our cowboy stiff necked, red neck, embarrassment of a leader taunts iran. at least iran was not foolish enough to play into bushs and blairs plan. it is time that this freak show of the bush administration ends
By cajunsher | Apr 5, 2007 9:26:01 AM | Request Removal

Mr. Hiatt*s membership in AIPAC is obviously paid in full. Has he or Reverend Moon or Mr. Murdoch bought the Washington Post. Or do its owners no longer care what filth drips from Mr. Hiatt*s pen? His notion of a Shadow Presidency is the most hilarious. That post has always been filled by Mr. Cheney.
By dpklln | Apr 5, 2007 9:26:17 AM | Request Removal

And just what did you expect from the new driver of the Congressional Clown Car? This idiocy is what American chose for itself, in a paroxym of disgust with Republican folly and incumbant corruption. We can look forward to another 18 months--and perhaps another four years beyond that--of such folly. Pelosi is intoxicated with her new power but doesnt have the intellectual candlepower to match. Its a dangerous combination for an America that asked for it.
By pburich | Apr 5, 2007 9:27:11 AM | Request Removal

Excellent opinion piece. Pelosi was manipulated as easily as the Germans manipulated Lindbergh and the Duke of Windsor in the 1930s. The sad thing is, she probably believes that she did something constructive!!
By hgreen | Apr 5, 2007 9:27:35 AM | Request Removal

Thank you for using the most appropriat term to describe our new Speaker a fool. The KGB described their most effective agents as their unwitting tools in the West that they could convince to promote their policies. Congratulations to Ms. Pelosi on becoming the highest ranking agent of Syrian propaganda.
By joedocbc | Apr 5, 2007 9:27:40 AM | Request Removal

Good Lord! That foolish woman needs to be baking cookies for her grandchildren and nothing more! Get her ass out of there NOW!
By kparsons12 | Apr 5, 2007 9:27:41 AM | Request Removal

Ms. Pelosi as head of the cut and run crowd has assumed she has the power to surrender on behalf of Israel.
By pneville1 | Apr 5, 2007 9:27:43 AM | Request Removal

Here*s the FACT that will make our little wingnuts* heads explode: 70 percent of the American people---including independents and Republicans disgusted by Bush*s failures----support Nancy Pelosi*s choices. Mr. Hiatt and the Pelosi haters on this board are now in the minority, and you can tell they know it by the venom and irrational hatred in their editorials and their posts. Had Mr. Bush not been such an incompetent failure, they might all be in a different position now, but they*d rather change the subject and blame Nancy Pelosi. It*s a typical Karl Rove/Fred Hiatt trick. But it won*t work this time. Americans have turned against this president, and they DO NOT TRUST him anymore. Deal with it, wingnuts.
By auntmo9990 | Apr 5, 2007 9:28:06 AM | Request Removal

Holy cow, a left wing rag with sensibility!! Pelosi will single-handedly put the Republicans back in control of everything in short order. What a dangerously arrogant fool. She will have American blood on her scarf. Appeasement NEVER works...NEVER!!!
By vxsmith | Apr 5, 2007 9:29:05 AM | Request Removal

To Ms Pelosi the enemy of my enemy is my friend. Assad is the enemy of Bush who is Pelosis enemy. Therefore Assad is now looked upon, by her, as her friend. Do these people not understand that if a Democrat wins in 2008 that the poisonous atmosphere they have helped to create by bashing this country and this administration at every turn is not going to magically go away? The world has always been jealous of the US and would like nothing more than to see us destroyed...at the same time wanting to all come here of course. By trying to one up Bush, Pelosi justs hurts the US.
By wbna | Apr 5, 2007 9:29:10 AM | Request Removal

Wow, the lefies posting here are truly demonstrating a remarkable lack of understanding of Middle East history. Pelosi has done great harm to the country, not to mention how she looks to most of the thugs that currently run countries in that part of the world. Useful idiot comes to mind. Bush should call Pelosi to the WH 30 seconds after her plane goes wheels down and, first, give her a history lesson and then tell her, in no uncertain terms, that if she EVER pulls another stunt like this.....
By gene | Apr 5, 2007 9:29:23 AM | Request Removal

Oh really aunt9990, So if you dont trust Bush then its OK to shake hands with murdering terrorists? Ah yes, Liberal Logic at its best!
By mozzmozz | Apr 5, 2007 9:29:27 AM | Request Removal

Neville Pelosi, like Peanut Carter, has never seen an Islamic thug she doesnt like. The fact she went there and is trying to strip the President of constitutional authority of commander in chief shows she doesnt have the brains of a camel. Neither do the people who helped elect her.
By kokomo54 | Apr 5, 2007 9:29:31 AM | Request Removal

Pelosi is only interested in her political ambitions. It matters not one bit the enormous mess she is making. On her bid to cut off funds to our troops, maybe the first cut should be is the perks these congresspeople get from the military.
By hurleyboo | Apr 5, 2007 9:29:42 AM | Request Removal

Who does she think she is? Shes not the Secretary of State, why does she think she has the expertise to even talk to these people? This is ridiculous!!! Shes got a big head!!! I cannot believe these people, stick to your own job and leave the diplomacy to the experts.
By marsha.schaefer | Apr 5, 2007 9:29:47 AM | Request Removal

The Trolls should check their facts before agreeing with someone like Mr. Hiatt. But then, if they did, they would not be Trolls.
By dpklln | Apr 5, 2007 9:30:12 AM | Request Removal

Nancy needs to go home and bake cookies for all of her grandchildren.
By gitrdonegoss | Apr 5, 2007 9:30:37 AM | Request Removal
 

Holy cow, a left wing rag with sensibility!! Pelosi will single-handedly put the Republicans back in control of everything in short order. What a dangerously arrogant fool. She will have American blood on her scarf. Appeasement NEVER works...NEVER!!!

By vxsmith | Apr 5, 2007 9:30:43 AM | Request Removal
 

Ms. Pelosi as head of the cut and run crowd has assumed she has the power to surrender on behalf of Israel.

By pneville1 | Apr 5, 2007 9:30:46 AM | Request Removal
 

Amen, she is a fool, big time!

By aldo | Apr 5, 2007 9:30:49 AM | Request Removal
 

Also, one thing Pelosi has always prided herself on is looking tres attractive. That head scarf was a fashion disaster, notwithstanding its symbolic enslavement of women. She should have stayed out of the mosque and out of the headscarf.

By wbna | Apr 5, 2007 9:30:53 AM | Request Removal
 

How did the Post get this right????

By Loryienne | Apr 5, 2007 9:31:14 AM | Request Removal
 

The President of the United States is not here to plug any leaks. He is here to make sure that we are never attacked again from these radical muslim sects. Diplomacy does not work with the radical sects. It is a sign of weakness. Read some history. Go to V.D. Hansons site. Even the Greeks understood the madness of the Persians and fought them again and again for Freedom. When Iran, Syria, Qatar, Yemen, Libya, the UAE and frankly Saudi Arabia is destroyed to the lat man there will be peace. Warriors know that diplomacy is a fools errand. Diplomacy works among people with honor. Do you think diplomacy brought down the former USSR? Nope. The power, and more importantly, the THREAT of power from a strong United States military helped them to collapse inward. Iran is presently broke. They are rationing gasoline. The mullahs know that almond dinnerjacket has to be muzzled or there will be serious trouble for them. Time for a whack job. The President is to be commended for not being soft of these monsters. They wish our very death every day in every mosque across the world and will NOT stop until we are all subjegated to the radical sect Koran interpretations. I for one will go down to the last man fighting them as will my brothers to protect these UNITED STATES. Semper Fi

By lauban888 | Apr 5, 2007 9:31:16 AM | Request Removal
 

Well stated. Madame Pelosi is one of Assads willing accomplices. J.Glasscock Longdrycreek Ranch, Texas

By Longdrycreek | Apr 5, 2007 9:31:53 AM | Request Removal
 

Wow. A bit of an editorial hit piece isnt it? While its true that no speaker can possibly fill in the gap in diplomacy left by this head in the sand administration, shouldnt the Post editorial writers at least mention that part of her discussion focused on ending Syrias destabilizing relationship with Hamas and Hezbollah and its meddling in Iraq? The real disaster here is the absent foreign policy of the Bush Administration. Clearly, the Post editorial page has chosen to ride the Bush sinking ship to the bottom of the foreign policy ocean. Your choice, but any objective credibility once fostered by the paper will continue to evaporate.

By jthornsfan | Apr 5, 2007 9:32:30 AM | Request Removal
 

Bravo Washington Post!

By rhodgell1 | Apr 5, 2007 9:32:33 AM | Request Removal
 

The liberal punks really dont get it! Hey guys, head on over and preach your ideas to the terrorist in the middle east! Just be sure to wear a steel collar around yor neck, least you come back without a head!?

By shrkba8 | Apr 5, 2007 9:32:35 AM | Request Removal
 

Oh, my. Karl has added several more Rove Fellowships to the AEI. I wish he gave them better talking points. But then, he would have to give Mr. Hiatt a better script first.

By dpklln | Apr 5, 2007 9:33:17 AM | Request Removal
 

Nancy needs to go home and bake cookies. Brains must run short. She is NOT Secretary of State. She needs to take care of San Francisco.

By gitrdonegoss | Apr 5, 2007 9:33:23 AM | Request Removal
 

Why are democrats so hateful and unwilling to hear any other viewpoint? And why are they always so inclined to make racist comments such as calling the Jews lied? This was a good editorial that points out the obviuous. Bush, like or not often not for me was elected to serve and represent the United States, not a small congressional district in California like Pelosi. It is important that the United States present a unified position internationally, as determined by its majority vote. If we have every local nut going out trying to undermine the policies of the duly elected representatives who are truly responsible for setting those policies, we have chaos. Just imagine what these blind liberal zealots would be saying if it was Bill Clinton in White House and Newt Gingrich hopping the globe to undermine his policy. Such hypocrisy. Well, I guess now we know why Nancy wanted her bigger jet ...

By SRK2000 | Apr 5, 2007 9:33:47 AM | Request Removal
 

Open communications for peace with a dicator and murder. The Left just doesnt get the fact that some people OTHER THEN BUSH are really really REALLY evil. Pelosi reminds me of Chamberlin coming from his visit to Hitler and declaring I have secured peace in our time.

By larson_gop | Apr 5, 2007 9:33:58 AM | Request Removal
 

Mozzmozz, did you know that the Bush administration is funding a terrorist organization out of Pakistan to infiltrate Iran? Did you know that that Pakistani terrorist organization is an Al Queda/Taliban sympathizer? It*s just incredible how naive you wingnuts are, and how easily the Hiatts play you like a drum. Shake hands with terrorists? Didn*t you see Bush kissing the Saudi Arabian king, when most of the 9-11 terrorists came from Saudi Arabia? Grow up, please.

By auntmo9990 | Apr 5, 2007 9:34:05 AM | Request Removal
 

Chris Matthews was right. This is a neo-con paper now.

By Benmgmu | Apr 5, 2007 9:34:16 AM | Request Removal

Imagine if this was done by a Republican Speaker when Clinton was President - CNN, MSNBC, CBS, NBC, and ABC would have special reports showing the imbecilic remarks of this woman. But Pelosi is a Democrat, so she gets a pass. She just committed a dangerous act. She should be removed as Speaker just for being stupid as a log.

By gideonssword79 | Apr 5, 2007 9:34:28 AM | Request Removal
 

MaryLouHarper should go back to her job as a camp guard at Auschwitz. I bet she loved it.

By gideonssword79 | Apr 5, 2007 9:35:28 AM | Request Removal
 

For years weve been calling Bush a Bubble-head. Then we finally earn our way to power and elect as house speaker our own Bubble-head. Why?

By pescaderotarzan | Apr 5, 2007 9:36:00 AM | Request Removal
 

This is not a neo-con paper or any other kind of paper. It is just reporting a treasonous act by the Speaker of the House under the Logan Act. Simple.

By lauban888 | Apr 5, 2007 9:36:22 AM | Request Removal
 

Word!

By najohns2 | Apr 5, 2007 9:36:31 AM | Request Removal
 

Nancy Pelosi has been a terrible disappointment as Speaker. She has ignored important issues to pursue a ridiculously political agenda for the sake of politics and failed in that. She is seeking only to fill her campaign coffer with foreign money under the guise of seeking peace. I am twice the angry with her because I thought her a more honorable leader. She has surpassed all in duplicity.

By sylviabrown | Apr 5, 2007 9:36:39 AM | Request Removal
 

Ms. Pelosis zeal in upstaging the Bush administration has placed her in a position where she screwed up. She should have spent her vacation in San Francisco with her far left constiuancy, perhaps leading an anti war parade or a gay pride parade, or handing out money to the homeless on Market street. She is an embarrasment to this country and has set women back in their quest for politcal equality. Oldsage1940

By paugusta | Apr 5, 2007 9:36:41 AM | Request Removal
 

Unfortunatelay Ms. Pelosi is what passes for an esteemed elected official these days, we should dmenad better. This clown acts like the clown act district she comes from, always impudent and defiant but never coherent. Look at her first words after the election We got the power, those arent words I want to hear from any elected politician of any party, the power always belongs to We the People. She forgets she is our steward.She doesnt even know what an embarassment she is to her office.

By keithkalish | Apr 5, 2007 9:37:01 AM | Request Removal
 

Why dont you bring up and discuss the Federal law that makes it illegal for unauthorized people to attempt to represent the USA in foreign policy negotiations???

By TripleHjr | Apr 5, 2007 9:37:10 AM | Request Removal
 

History repeats. We were negotiating in good faith with the Japanese while the bombs fell on Pearl Harbor. Mr. Assad knows this history, but Ms. Pelosi chooses to ignore it.

By joedocbc | Apr 5, 2007 9:37:18 AM | Request Removal
 

Nature abhors a vacuum. If we had a President in the White House who was not a vacuum, we would not have these others trying to fill the role.

By gasmonkey | Apr 5, 2007 9:37:48 AM | Request Removal
 

Ms. Pelosi is flirting with treason.

By Sandydmohler | Apr 5, 2007 9:37:59 AM | Request Removal
 

The last time we attempted to have peace with a dictator we ended up with over 55 million people dead. Comrade Nancy and her European allies especially French and British should know better and remember Munich if 1938, betrayal of Czechoslovakia and the 2nd World War.

By viczusman | Apr 5, 2007 9:38:19 AM | Request Removal
 

Nancy Pelosi - WonderWoman. This is what happens when you start believing your own fawning press.

By drjcarlucci | Apr 5, 2007 9:38:29 AM | Request Removal
 

Ms. Pelosis trip to Syria and the resulting statements made by her on behalf of the Israeli prime minister can be viewed as optimism gone terribly wrong, or they can be viewed as the hubris which emerges nearly everytime office holders get comfortabley situated in a position of power. There appears a sense of euphoria, people become expansive, they relax, and all manner of silliness spills out. Fortunately, Ms. Pelosi will have learned a valuable lesson by the time she returns home. The same cannot be said of the President whose hubris and general sense of euphoria emerging from his political victories over his first six years in office, perpetrated all manner of foreign and national disaster. Pelosi is learning, shell come back a little stronger and a little wiser.

By j1340 | Apr 5, 2007 9:38:30 AM | Request Removal
 

Every breath Pelosi takes is leading up to impeaching the President and undermining this country. What a gal. Scott of Pa.

By ScottDJ | Apr 5, 2007 9:38:46 AM | Request Removal
 

Yes Speaker Pelosi did offer an excellent example of why we must bypass the militant christofascist neocons when it comes to foreign policy. Turns out that when Bush released his Iranian hostage in Iraq the Iranians let the Brits go but why hasnt the Wash Post covered that story? Why hasnt the WP covered this, an AP story less than 24 hours old: **Syria played a key role in resolving the standoff over the 15 British sailors and marines held by Iran, two government officials said Wednesday. Syrian efforts and the Iranian willingness culminated with the release of the British sailors, said Information Minister Mohsen Bilal. He said Syria had been asked to help positively in the issue of British crew members since their March 23 seizure by Iran in the Persian Gulf. He did not elaborate. Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem told reporters that Syria exercised a sort of quiet diplomacy to solve this problem and encourage dialogue between Britain and Iran. Al-Moallem, who also did not give any details on the Syrian mediation, spoke at Damascus international airport before the departure of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi news, bio, voting record for Saudi Arabia.

By lichtme | Apr 5, 2007 9:38:47 AM | Request Removal
 

Right ON!

By boater | Apr 5, 2007 9:38:50 AM | Request Removal
 

Whatever sound Pelosis pratfall made, it is drowned out by the the flatulent thunder of George Yosemite Sam Bushs fraudlent and impotent presidency imploding.

By arcadian | Apr 5, 2007 9:38:50 AM | Request Removal
 

A briliant analysis. Perhaps a move should begin to IMPEACH PELOSI!

By jcollins | Apr 5, 2007 9:38:54 AM | Request Removal

Pelosi is another ignorant liberal with no appreciation or understanding of the Middle East problems and culture. Just look at the way she is dressed when sitting with the Syrian head of state...her tight skirt hiked halfway up to her ass like Madelyn Albright did. Boy do we have some clowns in the Congress.

By vhmbnmcbm | Apr 5, 2007 9:39:29 AM | Request Removal
 

Yes, because actually entering a dialogue with a country that borders another country were occupying makes no sense whatsoever. Lets do this the fourth-grade way and just not talk to them. Thatll show em! Theyll really want to come to the negotiating table after we dont talk to them for a long time! Were giving you the SILENT TREATMENT, Syria! Shape up and fly right, dangit! Of course, Fred Hiatt is writing this, so you know what its really about. Youve got to poo-poo any diplomacy first, then start those war drums up. I guess the Iranian situations peaceful conclusion has moved the itch for Freddie-boy and Co. Now theyre after Syria. Cant we just let our war-mongers go somewhere where theyre appreciated? This constant cheering for more violence is ridiculous. So, to the editorial board: diplomacy=good and violence=bad. If its not become clear in Iraq, the second you start dropping bombs all your little theories go right out the window. How about you settle that catastrophe before you start agitating for another one? And heres one more thing. Stop calling heads of state thugs. Its disrespectful and unnecessary. That kind of gutter language and petty one-upsmanship is the nonsense that has led to everyone hating our country. Whether or not Mr. Assad is a thug what, does that mean he listens to rap music or something? is immaterial to a discussion of Mrs. Pelosis trip to Syria. Whats important, at least to me, and probably most Americans is that Mrs. Pelosi is attempting to follow the recommendations of the bipartisan Baker-Hamilton commission. The President has totally ignored their recommendations. Instead of chiding Mrs. Pelosi for trying, perhaps you could criticize the Bush administration for its complete lack of effort.

By jjhare | Apr 5, 2007 9:39:53 AM | Request Removal
 

The last time we attempted to have peace with a dictator we ended up with over 55 million people dead. Comrade Nancy and her European allies especially French and British should know better and remember Munich of 1938, betrayal of Czechoslovakia and the 2nd World War.

By viczusman | Apr 5, 2007 9:39:56 AM | Request Removal
 

Speaker Pelosi is truely Jimma Carter in drag. She and Jimmy Carter shouldn stay away from trying to usurp the authority of this or any President. The failed Clinton doctrine in North korea was a result of Jimmy carters meddling in foreign affairs.

By CDonClark | Apr 5, 2007 9:40:07 AM | Request Removal
 

i can not believe that mrs pelosi is so NAIVE ...let mkeep an eye on her for the rest of the WASH STORY she may be danger. Alex Ratti

By MAYMAYPIU | Apr 5, 2007 9:40:17 AM | Request Removal
 

I did not, since I am not a citizen of California, elect Pelosi into office. And I certainly did not elect her as Speaker of the House. So how does she think that she can represent me as the CIC or even SoS? Arent the duties of the Speaker rather specific? And I am sure they do not include usurping the powers of others or discussing US policy with terrorist states. This is a rare position by WaPo but it is overdue that someone expresses concern over this lack of intelligence called Pelosi. By the way, nice scarf, Nan.

By doctorfrankenlanger | Apr 5, 2007 9:40:26 AM | Request Removal
 

Democrats see the world as they wish it to be rather than as what it is. Their Communist viewponit that all workers are equal and united against the rich capitalists does not allow for the existence of religious terrorists or jihads that might interfere with their continuing progress on redistribution of wealth through punitive taxation. No one can top them for pure brass and idiocy.

By zapman | Apr 5, 2007 9:40:37 AM | Request Removal
 

In the spirit of Holy Week, AMEN!

By ajamoros | Apr 5, 2007 9:40:45 AM | Request Removal
 

Nancy Pelosis leadership is a trainwreck. When the outspokenly liberal Washington Post criticizes a Democrat this strongly, you know there must be truth to it.

By Alfred | Apr 5, 2007 9:41:16 AM | Request Removal
 

Pelosi is now an international clown

By alexconner | Apr 5, 2007 9:41:26 AM | Request Removal
 

Democrats see the world as they wish it to be rather than as what it is. Their Communist viewponit that all workers are equal and united against the rich capitalists does not allow for the existence of religious terrorists or jihads that might interfere with their continuing progress on redistribution of wealth through punitive taxation. No one can top them for pure brass and idiocy.

By zapman | Apr 5, 2007 9:41:59 AM | Request Removal
 

Ms, Pelosi is just one more useful Idiot in Syrias campaign of jihad against any attempt to establish democracy in the region. Complemented by that useful Moron Jimmy Carter. We have just gotten a glimpse of what the state department and foreign policy will look like if we elect a democrat to the presidency in 2008. Once again the appeasers will rule. History as it always does when nothing is learned from it will repeat itself. Only this time it may come with a mushroom cloud attached. RR Goodwin

By rrgoodwin | Apr 5, 2007 9:42:04 AM | Request Removal
 

Did the supporters of Polosi not read the editorial. Polosi told a lie. How can anyone support this?

By billd | Apr 5, 2007 9:42:06 AM | Request Removal
 

My goodness...the Washington Post blasting a liberal democrat. Now it makes sense as to why NE Ohio is having snow today. Now why dont you push for her arrest on grounds of treason!! Then maybe global warming will be cured!!

By mike_marecic | Apr 5, 2007 9:42:11 AM | Request Removal
 

We are reaping the benefits promised by the Democrats prior to the last election. They promised to hold hearings, harrass the White House, cut off funds for the war in Iraq, undermine American interests whereever they can, and undermine and criticize the Bush administration constantly. Bush deserves criticism for a lot of things, but not at the expense of our national security.

By clhill | Apr 5, 2007 9:42:16 AM | Request Removal
 

Nothing ever changes in Washington - evertone wants to be the PResident but only one person can win the election. Right or Wrong, Good President or Bad, Mr. Bush is our elected President and CINC. The Speaker of the House does not have maker of Foreign policy or Commander of the troops in the job description. 1 silly trip just plays into the propoganda machine of all these corrupt dictatorships that spawn terror all through the world. They dont care about muslims, jews, christians and relgion - they only care about money and power. The region or country does not matter - the desires are the same in all dictatorships. A Paldino

By captdino81 | Apr 5, 2007 9:42:21 AM | Request Removal
 

Pelosi! Please...!

By riker88 | Apr 5, 2007 9:42:26 AM | Request Removal
 

AMEN!

By stevesnews2002 | Apr 5, 2007 9:42:36 AM | Request Removal
 

She is a joke! Like President Bush or not he is the President. She is going to cost the Dems the House. Great job San Francisco in electing a rich woman with no brains!

By dmohr12 | Apr 5, 2007 9:43:17 AM | Request Removal
 

Thanks for the article. I would just add that she is a profound idiot, along with Senator Reid. They have no idea of what type of thugs we are dealing with and are playing a very dangerous game when they are attempting to micro-manage a very difficult war and now, attempting to implement foreign policy. She has set back the womens movement years by displaying a lack of leadership and common sense.

By ra13889260 | Apr 5, 2007 9:43:30 AM | Request Removal

How can anyone support a liar? Read the facts as reported.

By billd | Apr 5, 2007 9:43:32 AM | Request Removal
 

Ms. Pelosis attempt to establish a shadow presidency is not just couterproductive it is an open act of tratorism. It hasnt been too many years past that she would be imprisoned if not shot for being a trator! We have become a cowardly PC society and it will destroy us.

By susan | Apr 5, 2007 9:43:46 AM | Request Removal
 

well said and right on the money.

By ejhunter1010 | Apr 5, 2007 9:44:03 AM | Request Removal
 

I actually AGREE with the Washington comPost? Get Ripleys on the phone, ASAP! Madame Speaker should be arrested upon her attempted re-entry into the U.S. - after she pays the infidel tax in Syria and Saudi Arabia, that is. No burqa for you!

By metallihead36 | Apr 5, 2007 9:44:22 AM | Request Removal
 

Hey gasmonkey, if you think the President is not on top of it, look outside your window. We have not been attacked by any radical sect on our soil since 9/11. Read this carefully and slowly.. Only a strong United States military, with strong Navy and Air power fleet to protect and project power will prevent trouble on our soil. When San Francisco is blown to a billion pieces what will you say then? Still Bushes fault? Bull. Nothing would make me happier. The left wing nuts have the right to wear headbands, be vegans, scream and holler all day thanks to my comrades who gave their blood so they could do this. Thousands of men died on the beaches of Normandy and the sulfur smelling sands of Iwo Jima to make sure this right exists. And they are all volunteers today. The main mission is to protect our soil not make peace with people that want our death at every turn. Do you think about why there have been no more attacks on US Soil? Because every Imam in every mosque in the United States has emailed each other locking down those in their gang that want to cause trouble on some Oklahoma school bus packed with TNT or C4. They know that should this happen, posse commitatus will be suspended like Lincoln had to do, and we will round up every last one of them to protect this country guilty or not. I have watched as my brothers have died in my arms. I have fought in open combat with these monkeys. What they understand is a 50 Cal machine gun blowing away their hideouts and THEN they are willing to listen. Slingshots and handouts of vegan cuisine would get us all killed. Semper Fi

By lauban888 | Apr 5, 2007 9:44:39 AM | Request Removal
 

I saw Ms. Pelosi on Meet the Press some time ago. My perception of her then, after her awful interview, was that she was a dim bulb. Clearly over her head. After seeing the results of her Middle East meddling, the perception has changed to reality.

By genper | Apr 5, 2007 9:44:53 AM | Request Removal
 

calling mr assad a thug,makes you sound just like bush. has anyone any proof that syria is really doing what bush accuses him of? remember this all comes from a man that lied to start a war of choice. a man who touts democracy, yet undermines the constitution, calling the constitution just a goddamned piece of paper. his words, not mine, use the google. no wonder you people have lost your credibility.

By rowdyruffian | Apr 5, 2007 9:44:54 AM | Request Removal
 

Fred Hiatt, Wanker of the Day! How does it feel to win such a prestigious award? Can you comment on rumors that Atrios intends to rename the award after you? Maybe he can call it the Fred Hiatt Misogynist Prick Award.

By washpost | Apr 5, 2007 9:45:14 AM | Request Removal
 

For a second there I thought I read something critical of Grandma Pelosi in the Post. Oh wai